Guest Post: Sage Erickson In Biarritz, France

We are so excited to share this guest post from our good friend, professional surfer Sage Erickson!

With the final two stops on the ASP Women’s World Championship Tour taking place in Europe, I’ve been fortunate to spend the last several weeks walking through some of Europe’s most beautiful locations. One of my absolute favorites is Biarritz, France. Historically rich with character and amazing architecture, Biarittz sits on the southwest coast of France in French Basque Country. Biarritz’s beaches, cafes and weather make this location ideal for the wandering heart traveler.

On a recent Sunday, coffee dates, gelato, and second hand shopping were on the agenda. On the weekends, Biarritz’s streets come alive with locals selling everything from jewelry to clothing. It’s a second hand shopper’s paradise. For 10 euro, I scored an amazing leather vest handcrafted in nearby Spain. Walking through the city center, the fresh scent of baguettes and croissants are impossible to resist. I stumbled upon one of the oldest bakeries in Biarritz. The bakery itself has no name so you can only find it by word of mouth. I wish I could share the location, but I don’t want to spoil the adventure of finding it on your own… after all, getting there is half the fun! After a quick snack, I spent a few moments with two lovely women who tolerated my broken French and graciously obliged my request to take a photo with them (they are straight out of a movie). I always make an effort to speak the local language when I’m traveling. When you do, you’ll be rewarded with memories that would otherwise have passed you by.

As a professional surfer, I’ve been to some of the world’s most amazing beaches and I’ve discovered that amazing beaches and amazing cities don’t necessarily go hand-in-hand. This is where Biarritz truly shines – you get the best of both worlds. The shops, cafes and restaurants of this beautiful city are within walking distance to the sunshine drenched beaches and crystal blue water. Biarritz epitomizes the European lifestyle and is an absolute dream.

Biarritz, you beauty, I can’t wait to return. Until next time! Au revoir!